RUSSIA: Modi-Putin Call Highlights Strong Relations Despite US Concerns

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin held a call earlier today with Indian PM Narendra Modi. Kremlin says that "Modi [briefed] Putin on his visit to Washington. The Indian leader expressed understanding & support for the Russian leadership's decisive actions to protect law & order and ensure stability in the nation in the wake of armed mutiny attempt."

• Kremlin: "Ukraine issue was discussed during Putin-Modi call on Friday, Russian President underlined Kiev's refusal to take political and diplomatic steps towards peace settlement. The conversation was informative and constructive. The leaders reaffirmed their mutual intention to strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between Russia and India and agreed on further contacts"
• Contacts between India and Russia remain of significant interest in the West. The US in particular has sought to bring India towards its camp in relation to opposing both Russia's invasion of Ukraine but also the continued expansion of China's political and economic influence around the world.
• However, so far this has proved a difficult task for Washington. India remains a substantial buyer of discounted Russian hydrocarbons and retains strong links with Moscow on defence procurement.